Michael Ashford, chair of the Lucas County Democrat Party, released a statement yesterday calling for the resignation of councilpersons Larry Sykes, Yvonne Harper, Tyrone Riley, and Gary Johnson following their arrests yesterday on bribery and extortion charges.
"This is not what I had anticipated upon taking office, nor is it acceptable. While these individuals are innocent until proven guilty, we are urging them to resign from their elected positions so the focus of progress is not derailed by this distraction. We will be working with City Council to appoint outstanding new members to that body that will reflect Democratic core values and philosophy."
Each has said they do not expect to step down. Should they change their minds and give up their seats on council who should replace them?